THE atmosphere is hotting up for the return of Greenock Fire Festival this weekend.

Following a successful debut last year, the free event is back for 2016 with another action-packed programme of things to do and see at Cathcart Square tomorrow. 

There will be an array of vintage fire engines, demonstrations and food and drink stalls for visitors to enjoy.

A parade will start at Greenock Fire Station on Rue End Street, travelling along Cathcart Street towards the square, which will be sealed off for the day.

There will also be a mobile museum showcasing the work of firefighters in World War One and a variety of fire safety demonstrations, including cutting a passenger out of a damaged car and extinguishing a chip pan blaze.

The festival is being organised by members of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Heritage Trust, who run the Greenock Fire Museum at Wallace Place, and is supported by Inverclyde Council.

Provost Robert Moran, who attended the event 12 months ago, is looking forward to another busy day of activities for all the family.

Mr Moran said: “Inverclyde is delighted to have this festival back again, it is an excellent addition to the many great events we have throughout the year.

“The fire museum is a fantastic visitor attraction so it is fitting that the town should host an event like this. I am much looking forward to it and hope people will join me on the day.”

The fire engine parade – featuring vintage and new models – will start at 11am, and when the vehicles stop off at Cathcart Square, visitors will get the chance to see them up close, find out how they work and learn about their history.

Children can also meet the heritage trust’s mascot, Blaze Bear.

Entry is free and there will be food, drink and merchandise on sale. David

Adam, chairman of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Heritage Trust, said: “We are delighted to bring this back event to Inverclyde.

“It was extremely popular last time and we hope everyone will turn out to see us again. It is an excellent opportunity to promote the fire service and allow the public to get up close to these vintage appliances.”